Mr Claußen, from your own experience, where do you see the greatest similarities between Eastern and Western Germany 20 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall? And where are there differences?
This question is of course being asked everywhere at the moment because of the anniversary, but is it really relevant any more? There are numerous regional, historical and political differences as well as varying experiences and tastes, but there are also many similarities. To name a few would be too selective. So, I would say that much has blended together, but some regional distinctions remain.
Rotkäppchen Sekt is a successful producer of different sekt (sparkling wine) and wine varieties. Do you notice a difference in tastes between East and West? Or are there mutual preferences?
The initial difference of a milder taste in the East compared with the preference in the West for very dry wines is hardly in evidence now: people in the East no longer have such sweet tastes, and those in the West are now choosing varieties that are far less dry.
The roots of the company are in Freyburg on the river Unstrut. How important is the regional origin of your company for the sale of your products?
Among our approximately ten brands there are three which play on their roots a little: “Rotkäppchen
Which is your personal favorite from the Rotkäppchen range?
As a sekt: Rotkäppchen Riesling, dry, bottle fermentation
From the wines: Rotkäppchen Dornfelder quality wine, semi-dry
And for now and then, when I want something without alcohol, Rotkäppchen alcohol-free sekt, which I enjoy ice-cold for a fresh and bubbling treat.
With this variety it is impossible to have just one favorite and it also depends completely on the setting.
Thank you very much for the interview!
September 2009
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